College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Forestry

Bikes

When a bicycle or E-bike is possessed or operated on campus, it must be registered, parked, and locked at a bike rack and in operable condition. MSU, City of Lansing, City of East Lansing, and Meridian Township registrations (permits) are acceptable if current, valid, and adhered to the stationary frame-post below the seat, facing the handlebars. To register your bicycle or E-bike, you must have the serial number from it. This may be found in several places, depending on the make and model. The most common location for the serial number is on the underside of the frame, near the pedals. Also, you will need to know the bicycle/E-bike make, color and whether the style is men or women. Bike permits can be obtained at no cost online at MSU Police Department Bike Permits. More information can be found at MSU Police Department Bike Information. 

Health Services

Olin Health Center is the primary health care facility for MSU students. Olin Health Center is home to primary care, psychiatry, allergy/immunizations, sports medicine, and health education services. Laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, and physical therapy are also located at Olin. An appointment is necessary for most student health services at Olin. More information can be found at Olin Health Services.

 

I. PROGRAM OVERVIEW

To ensure forests for our future, our global society needs to find the optimal balance between protecting forest ecosystems and the demand for forest products. As this challenge becomes more complex, professionals trained in the principles of forest ecology, soil science, and silviculture as well as in political science, sociology, and the humanities, will be in great demand in the next ten to twenty years and beyond. The Forestry Department at Michigan State University offers Master of Science and Doctoral degree programs that can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and resources to meet this challenge effectively. Career opportunities in research, management, teaching, extension, or consulting are available with private corporations, environmental organizations, universities, environmental consultants, and governmental agencies.

The Department of Forestry is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse group of graduate students. The importance of appreciating diverse perspectives among peers and faculty is integral to the professional development of all graduate students. With diversity and professional growth in mind, it is required that graduate students attend all Hanover Seminars and visitor/recruitment lunches.  Attendance at these events reflects upon your Department citizenship and will be taken in account when annual fellowship decisions are being made.

With each program of study built specifically for individual students, the timeline at which you should reach stages in your training will differ. However, by the end of your program it is expected that you should be able to demonstrate proficiency in the learning outcomes defined for your program (PhD, Plan A MS, or Plan B MS) in the Department of Forestry’s Learning Outcomes and Assessment document.

Program Highlights

YEAR 1 – FOR 802 (Forest Science Research) must be taken upon its first offering after you enroll. Your guidance committee must be appointed by the end of second semester. Your program plan of study must be submitted by the end of second semester.

YEAR’S 2 – 8 Complete all course requirements in the program plan of study. Master’s students must pass a final oral examination and submit their thesis via ProQuest for approval by the Graduate School. Doctoral students are required to take an oral and written comprehensive exam covering their major and related fields. Doctoral students must pass a public defense of their dissertation and submit their dissertation via ProQuest for approval by the Graduate School.

 

II. PROGRAM COMPONENTS/PLAN OPTIONS

Masters of Science in Forestry(M.S.)

Students pursuing a M.S. in Forestry may choose between Research-Intensive (Plan A) and Professional (Plan B) Tracks. Both degree tracks require a total of 30 credit hours. In addition to coursework, students in the Research-Intensive track are expected to conduct original research leading to the completion of a thesis. This work is expected to result in at least one publication in the peer-reviewed scientific literature. In the Professional Track, the focus is primarily on coursework, although students are required to complete and defend a final professional project.

Doctor of Philosophy in Forestry (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy degree program in the Department of Forestry provides advanced education to prepare future scholars and leaders who, in turn, advance knowledge about forested ecosystems and help resolve issues that challenge the provision of forest ecosystem services at local, regional and global scales.  The PhD program is research intensive and includes the expectation that students produce original applied or fundamental research leading to 2-4 publications in the peer-reviewed literature.

A description of all the programs of study offered is located here Forestry Programs of Study

Graduate Certificate in Forest Carbon Science, Policy and Management (Transcriptable)

The Graduate Certificate in Forest Carbon Science, Policy, and Management offers participants the interdisciplinary tools and conceptual background to plan, implement, manage, and evaluate forestry-based, climate-change mitigation activities. The Certificate gives participants an edge in competing for employment in carbon mitigation projects of corporations, governments, and non-governmental organizations. Each of the three courses required to complete the certificate are now available online so participants can complete their training from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. More information on the Graduate Certificate in Forest Carbon Science, Policy and Management is located here Forest Carbon Science, Policy and Management.

Graduate Certification in College Teaching(Transcriptable)

The University Graduate Certification in College Teaching (CCT), an initiative of the Michigan State University Graduate School in partnership with MSU colleges, helps graduate students and postdocs organize, develop, and document their teaching experiences. Through professional development activities – workshops or seminars, coursework in disciplinary teaching methods, a mentored teaching project – participants will build and consolidate their preparation for college and university teaching. The program culminates in an eportfolio that will help participants prepare for academic job interviews and plan for their professional development as early career faculty. More information is located here Certification in College Teaching.

Second, Joint, or Dual Master’s Degrees

A candidate for a second master's degree, or for joint or dual master's degrees, from Michigan State University may request the application of up to 9 credits, appropriate to both programs, from the first master's degree program to the second or from one master's program to another. These 9 credits must have been earned within the time limitations of the college concerned. Credits used to satisfy the requirements of one master's degree may not be used to satisfy the residency requirements of another master's degree. The candidate must obtain written approval from both programs indicating which 9 credits will be shared. Credits applied to a Second, Joint, or Dual Master's Degree Program are not eligible to be applied to any other graduate degree program.

Dual Major Doctoral Degrees

 

All dual major doctoral degrees must be approved by the Dean of the Graduate School. A request for the dual major degree must be submitted via GradPlan within one semester following its development and within the first two years of the student’s enrollment at Michigan State University. In order to receive a dual major, the following conditions must be met:

1.     The intent to receive the degree in two areas must be outlined in the guidance committee report.

2.     The guidance committee will include members from both doctoral programs.

3.     The Ph.D. Degree Plan must reflect the required standards for both doctoral programs.

4.     The integrated course work must be satisfactory to both graduate programs and meet the requirements for awarding of a degree in that program.

5.     The comprehensive examination must be passed to the satisfaction of both departments.

6.     Responsible Conduct of Research requirements will be approved by the guidance committee; they should meet the RCR requirements in both programs.

7.     There must be a single dissertation that represents an integration of the two disciplinary areas.

8.     Guidance committee members from both departments must be satisfied that the dissertation represents a contribution meeting the usual standards in both areas.

Doctoral Comprehensive Exam

A comprehensive examination is administered after at least 80 percent of the course work is completed. It will consist of a written exam or exams covering each of the fields of study designated by the guidance committee, and an oral exam that will be attended by the full guidance committee or designated representatives. The specific content and format of the written exams is flexible if the exam is designed to evaluate the student’s comprehensive knowledge in their specific subdiscipline within Forestry and related fields. At least 2 months prior to the start of the exam the Committee must prepare and deliver to the student a written document that clearly specifies: 1) the format and timeframe for written and oral exams (e.g. open book, closed book, time limits, etc.), 2) the specific knowledge areas to be tested on by each committee member, and 3) guidelines for how the student should prepare (e.g. reading lists).

Students must be registered during the semester in which they take comprehensive examinations. This requirement may be waived if the examination is administered during the summer session immediately following a spring semester during which the student was registered and/or prior to a fall semester in which the student will be registered.

Upon completion of written and oral portions of the exam, the guidance committee will decide during the formal session if the student passes or fails. The student will not pass if more than one committee member dissents. In case of failure, the committee may allow one examination after at least one semester of additional study. This examination must be completed within five years from the time when a student begins the first class at Michigan State University that appears on his or her doctoral program of study. In the case of a comprehensive examination that consists of more than one part, the date that the student passes the examination is the date on which they pass the final component of the comprehensive examination. Upon passing the comprehensive examination, a student will be classified as a Ph.D. candidate. Upon completion the record of comprehensive examinations for doctoral degree candidates form must be completed by the student and committee and presented to the graduate secretary to advance the GradPlan online system to reflect the students’ PhD Candidate status. Forms can be found on the Graduate Program Forms and Handbooks page.

Official Plan of Study

A plan of study becomes official once it has been approved by the student’s committee, department chairperson, and dean of the college. Master’s students submit their plan of study using the OASA MS Program Plan Form. Doctoral students submit their plan of study using GradPlan. Doctoral students will also need to complete the Report of Guidance Committee Form and the Graduate Committee form and submit to the graduate secretary simultaneously with the routing of their GradPlan. Forms can be found on the Graduate Program Forms and Handbooks page.

III. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY TO GRADUATE STUDENTS

We take our role in your education not as simply academic evaluators; instead, we recognize our role as helping open paths to the next critical phase of your academic and professional growth. It is our hallowed responsibility to help you as you reach towards your greatest potential and impact through your selected area of study and career. We highlight some of our important responsibilities to you here:

1. Creating explicit expectations and transparent policies that are consistent with MSU policies
2. Enabling graduate students to make timely progress in their degree programs by ensuring that required courses and examinations are scheduled in a timely manner
3. Creating opportunities for networking and expanding career and professional development (e.g., organizing Speaker series, colloquia, and other formal and informal events)
4. Creating opportunities for graduate students to become familiar with the various forms of scholarship in the field, including in their disciplinary research, teaching, and outreach
5. Shared responsibility of faculty advisors and guidance committees to foster the professional and career development of graduate students (e.g., providing venues for honing professional writing and presentation skills, grants writing, publishing)
6. Providing regular progress checks for students (including annual written evaluations)
7. Providing education in research ethics and integrity
8. Recognizing and rewarding excellence in mentoring, and identifying opportunities for professional development so that faculty can improve students’ mentoring skills and abilities
9. Sharing information about MSU and Graduate School resources that can support students and (faculty in their mentoring role)

Guidelines for Graduate Mentoring and Advising -https://grad.msu.edu/msu-guidelines-graduate-student-mentoring-advising. 

 

IV. DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Application Procedure and Admission Requirements

Admission to Michigan State University is open to all candidates on the basis of academic preparation and ability, and the availability of space in the desired academic program, and without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, political persuasion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, height, weight, veteran status, age, or (in the case of U. S. citizens) financial need.

The applicant for admission at the graduate level must:

1. Complete the Online Application for Admission to Graduate Study, submit it with a credit card number or by electronic check or money order to cover the application fee.  Send all additional materials directly to the department, school or program to which admission is sought.
2. Request the registrar of each college or university attended to send one copy of each official transcript (translated into English, if needed) directly to the department, school or program to which admission is sought. Transcripts of work taken at Michigan State University need not be requested. All transcripts must be degree-granting transcripts.
3. Have three letters of recommendation sent electronically to the chairperson or director of the department or school to which admission is sought.
4. GRE Scores are required for admission to our M.S. and Ph.D. programs. These scores must be sent directly from the GRE Scoring Office to MSU. Institution Code – 1465 and Department Code – 0108.
5. English language proficiency must be demonstrated for applicants from non-English speaking countries. TOEFL scores must be sent directly from the TOEFL Scoring Office to MSU. Institution Code – 1465 and Department Code – 99.

1. If international students are admitted on a provisional basis because of language proficiency requirements, they can be issued an I-20 for language studies only. This I-20 is limited to a maximum of 2 years. The student would need to be tested at the English Language Center upon arrival and begin studying in the English level determined by that test. Once the student meets the departmental requirements for language, the student may be issued a degree-seeking I-20. If the student has not met the stated language proficiency requirement for department/program admission at the end of the two years, the student cannot continue to enroll for courses.
2. Provisional admission for international students can be granted ONLY for language deficiencies. Regulations will not allow the issuing of an I-20 for provisional admissions for academic reasons.

6. Fulfill any additional requirements and procedures of the college and department or school to which admission is sought.

To ensure full consideration, the application for admission, the application fee, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, test scores, and other required documents must be received by the appropriate offices at least nine months prior to the anticipated first semester of enrollment.

Master’s Degree Program Requirements

• The minimum number of credits required is 30 beyond the bachelor’s degree.
• More than half of the credits of the total required by the program of study for a master’s degree must be taken in courses at the 800 and 900 levels, except as specifically exempted by the dean of the college.
• A minimum of 6 credits in the degree program must be earned in residence on the East Lansing campus or at approved Michigan State University instructional sites.
• Complete FOR 802 – Forest Science Research upon its first offering after the student enrolls. (Plan B exempt).
• As many as 9 semester credits of graduate course work (excluding research and thesis credits) may be transferred into a 30-credit master’s degree program from other post-secondary accredited institutions comparable in academic quality, if they are appropriate to a student’s program and provided they were completed within the time limits approved for the earning of the degree desired at MSU. For more information, visit the Academic Program Catalog at Academic Programs Catalog.
• Students in a Plan A master’s degree program are required to pass an oral examination in defense of the thesis. The Major Professor schedules a final oral examination before the 10^th Friday of the semester in which degree requirements are to be completed. The examining committee is selected by the Major Professor and approved by the Department Chairperson. It is made up of the Major Professor and two regular MSU faculty members. The final examination will be oral, and the public portion will last approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours in length. To schedule a room for the Master’s oral examination, students must contact the Graduate Secretary with the date and time requested. The Graduate Secretary will assist the student with creating a flyer, sending the notice of examination two weeks prior, and posting flyers in the building. In case of failure, one re-examination may be scheduled at the discretion of the examining committee. The final oral examination must be passed within five calendar years from the date of enrollment in the first course included for degree certification. The Guidance Committee is responsible for evaluating the thesis and certifying to the Department Chairperson that it constitutes an acceptable thesis for the discipline.
• Students in a Plan B master’s program are required to pass an oral evaluation in defense of the professional project. The Major Professor schedules a final oral evaluation the semester in which degree requirements are to be completed. The evaluating committee is selected by the Major Professor and approved by the Department Chairperson. It is made up of the Major Professor and one regular MSU faculty member. The final evaluation will be oral, and the public portion will last approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours in length. To schedule a room for the Master’s plan B evaluation, students must contact the Graduate Secretary with the date and time requested. The Graduate Secretary will assist the student with creating a flyer, sending the notice of evaluation two weeks prior, and posting flyers in the building. In case of failure, one re-examination may be scheduled at the discretion of the evaluating committee. The final oral evaluation must be passed within five calendar years from the date of enrollment in the first course included for degree certification.

For both Plan A and Plan B, the student must be registered during the semester in which the examination or evaluation is administered. This requirement may be waived if the examination is administered during the summer session immediately following a spring semester during which the student was registered and/or prior to a fall semester in which the student will be registered.

• Plan A: A minimum of 6 credits in master’s thesis research (FOR 899) is required, maximum 10 credits. The thesis, an abstract of the thesis, and an abstract title page must be prepared in accordance with the specification in The Formatting Guide-Master’s Theses and Doctoral Dissertations, a handbook that is available, along with a packet of required forms relating to the thesis online at Theses and Dissertation Submissions.
• Plan B: Evidence of ability to prepare a scholarly paper. Normally such a paper will be prepared in FOR 898 – Master’s Professional Project, maximum 6 credits. A hard copy of the final approved professional project needs to be submitted to the Graduate Secretary to be kept in the students file.
• The examining committee is responsible for evaluating the thesis and certifying to the Department Chairperson that it constitutes an acceptable thesis for the discipline.
• Occasionally, individual chapters of a thesis are submitted for publication prior to the completion of the entire thesis. Graduate students should allow their committee members an opportunity to view manuscripts prior to submission. For chapters that have already been published an appropriate citation should be included in the thesis as required by the handbook The Formatting Guide-Master’s Theses and Doctoral Dissertations (Theses and Dissertation Submissions).
• After the examiners have reviewed and approved the thesis and voted to pass the student on the final oral examination in its defense, the student must incorporate into the thesis any recommended change(s) and corrections before presenting it to the thesis advisor for final review and signature of the approval form. Not later than the deadline date indicated by the Graduate School the semester in which graduation is expected, the student must submit to the Graduate School a final electronic copy of the thesis online at ProQuest ETD Administrator and the IRB approval form signed by the thesis advisor. An electronic copy of the thesis will reside in the MSU library and the abstract will be published online at ProQuest under Master’s Abstracts. The student will need to submit the Master’s Degree Record of Program, Thesis and Oral Examination form completed and signed by their committee to the graduate secretary for execution. Forms can be found on the Graduate Program Forms and Handbooks page. 

In addition to the main body of a thesis, the Graduate School now permits the submission of supplementary materials to ProQuest. These supplemental materials will not be reviewed by the Graduate School for formatting requirements, but they must be acceptable by ProQuest and comply with ProQuest’s criteria and storage limits. All supplementary materials need the written approval of the thesis committee chair.

Doctoral Degree Program Requirements

• The candidate must complete original research upon which a dissertation, which makes a significant contribution to knowledge is to be prepared and published.
• Normally six or more semesters of study and research beyond the bachelor’s degree are needed to complete a Ph.D. program, although time is less important than scholarly achievement.
• One year of residence on campus after first enrollment for doctoral degree credit is required to permit the student to work with and under the direction of the faculty, and to engage in independent and cooperative research utilizing university facilities. A year of residence will be made up of two consecutive semesters, involving completion of credits at the level of full-time status of graduate work each semester.
• Complete FOR 802 – Forest Science Research during the first Fall semester of program.
• All doctoral students must register for and successfully complete a minimum of 24 credits and no more than a total of 36 credits of doctoral dissertation research (FOR 999). The dissertation and an abstract of the dissertation must be prepared in accordance with the specifications in the Formatting Guide-Master’s Theses and Doctoral Dissertations, a handbook that is available, along with a packet of required forms relating to the dissertation online from The Graduate School. It is a policy of Michigan State University to permit and facilitate dissertation research by students from developing nations in their home countries, whenever feasible.
• No more than one fourth of the plan of study can be from transfer credits. Graduate credits may be transferred from other postsecondary accredited institutions of comparable academic quality if they are appropriate to a student’s program and provided, they were completed within the time limits approved for the earning of the degree desired at MSU. A student who is enrolled in a doctoral program and who is also enrolled in a master’s program at MSU may request the application of up to 9 credits, appropriate to both programs, from the doctoral program to the master’s degree program, as well. For more information, visit the Academic Program Catalog Transfer Credits.
• Comprehensive examinations must be completed within five years from the time when a student begins the first class at Michigan State University that appears on his or her doctoral program of study.
• All students completing a doctoral degree must use GradPlan. For more information on GradPlan, visit The Graduate School.
• Doctoral candidates must pass a final oral examination in defense of the dissertation.
• Each student working toward a Doctor of Philosophy degree must conduct original research upon which a dissertation which makes a significant contribution to knowledge is to be prepared and published. It is a policy of Michigan State University to permit and facilitate dissertation research by students from developing nations in their home countries, whenever feasible.
• The examining committee is responsible for evaluating the thesis and certifying to the Department Chairperson that it constitutes an acceptable thesis for the discipline.
• Occasionally, individual chapters of a thesis are submitted for publication prior to the completion of the entire thesis. Graduate students should allow their committee members an opportunity to view manuscripts prior to submission. For chapters that have already been published an appropriate citation should be included in the thesis as required by the handbook The Formatting Guide-Master’s Theses and Doctoral Dissertations (The Formatting Guide-Master’s Theses and Doctoral Dissertations).
• After the guidance committee and any appointed examiner have reviewed and approved the dissertation and after the student has passed the final oral examination in its defense, the student must incorporate into the dissertation any recommended change(s) and corrections before presenting it to the chairperson of the guidance committee for final review and signature of the approval form. Not later than the deadline date indicated by the Graduate School for the semester in which graduation is expected, the student must submit to the Graduate School a final electronic copy of the dissertation online at ProQuest ETD Administrator and the approval form signed by the dissertation advisor.

In addition to the main body of a dissertation, the Graduate School now permits the submission of supplementary materials to ProQuest. These supplemental materials will not be reviewed by the Graduate School for formatting requirements, but they must be acceptable by ProQuest and comply with ProQuest’s criteria and storage limits. All supplementary materials need the written approval of the dissertation committee chair.

• Prior to scheduling the oral examination in defense of the dissertation, the student must complete and deliver at least 2 products that synthesize and communicate results of their dissertation research to an outside audience. Options for these products may include submitting a manuscript to a refereed journal or submitting a report to a stakeholder (agency, industry, community group, etc). The major professor and guidance committee must recommend and approve the final option for each student as part of the official Plan of Study. This requirement may be waived under extraordinary circumstances at the request of the advisor or guidance committee and approval by the Director of Graduate Studies and Department Chairperson.

Maximum and Minimum Credits

Maximum: Graduate students may carry up to 16 credits each semester. The maximum number of credits; however, is determined by the Major Advisor. A student load above 16 credits requires approval by the CANR dean. Enrollment in doctoral dissertation research (FOR 999) credits need not be counted in determining maximum credits.

Minimum: All students using University services (faculty consultation included) for graduate work must be registered each semester. Minimum registration consists of one course of 1 credit. Summer semester is considered a vacation semester; therefore, enrollment is not required.

Full-Time Students: To be considered full-time for academic purpose, students must carry the minimum number of credits per semester or summer session as defined below:

Master’s level                               9 credits

Doctoral level (pre-comps)         6 credits

Doctoral level (post-comps)        1 credit

Graduate – Professional level     12 credits

 Full-time status for doctoral students is defined as a minimum of 1 credit for those students who:

1. have successfully completed all comprehensive exams and are actively engaged in dissertation research (DD status); or
2. are doing department-approved off-campus fieldwork related to preparation of their dissertation. This off-campus fieldwork (DG status) will be granted for one semester at a time up to a maximum of three semesters. The dean's office of the student's college will request the change of status by the Office of the Registrar at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester for which the status is requested.

Federal agencies such as the Department of Education, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Homeland Security may have separate and distinct full-time status requirements.

Language Requirements

All international applicants and applicants whose first language are not English must be able to be proficient in English as a condition for regular admission to Michigan State University. Such applicants will be required to demonstrate their proficiency by meeting certain minimum standards on any of the following tests: TOEFL – A total score of 80 with no sub score below 19 (22 for writing section) is required, MELAB, IELTS, ELC, PTEA, or CELP. All the above tests must have been taken within two years of a student’s application.

International applicants who have acceptable academic credentials may be admitted to Michigan State University on a provisional basis with average TOEFL scores of at least 70. The guidelines for regular and provisional admission based on English Language Proficiency can be found at English Language Proficiency. Provisionally admitted students must take classes at the English Language Center, and restrictions are placed on the number of academic courses that they may take. Any student admitted provisionally because of an English language deficiency must correct that deficiency within one calendar year.

As the language requirement is a University policy, a decision by the English Language Center (ELC) for a student to enroll in its program is binding and is not negotiable by the student. Students who are required to attend ELC classes are obligated to show good class attendance and make an earnest effort to remove the language deficiency as soon as possible. The ELC program must be completed satisfactorily before regular admission status may be granted.

MSU candidates for TA appointments who were required to demonstrate English proficiency as a condition for regular admission to Michigan State University must also demonstrate that they meet a minimum standard of proficiency in spoken English before they can be assigned teaching work that involves oral communication with undergraduate students. Those ITAs who received a waiver of the TOEFL or of other accepted tests of English proficiency for admission, must also meet the requirement of proficiency in spoken English before they are assigned to teaching work that involves oral communication with undergraduate students. To meet this requirement, those ITAs may use any of three options listed below:

• Presenting a TOEFL iBT speaking section score of 27 or higher.
• Receiving a score of 50 or higher on the MSU Speaking Test
• Taking AAE 451 or AAE 452 (ITA language support courses) and receiving a score of 50 or higher on the ITA Oral Interaction Test (ITAOI).

Individual exceptions from these requirements (on a case-by-case basis in rare circumstances) will be considered by the Graduate School in consultation with the ELC upon the request of the department and with the endorsement of the Associate Dean of the College.

Residency Requirements

A minimum of 6 credits in the degree program must be earned in residence on the East Lansing campus or at approved Michigan State University instructional sites for master’s students. One year of residence on campus after first enrollment for doctoral degree credit is required to permit the student to work with and under the direction of the faculty, and to engage in independent and cooperative research utilizing university facilities. A year of residence will be made up of two consecutive semesters, involving the completion of credits at the level of full-time status of graduate work each semester.

Grad Plan

All students completing doctoral degrees must use GradPlan which can be accessed using your MSU NetID and password at GradPlan. GradPlan is the web-interactive system for Ph.D. students only to create and store their Ph.D. Degree Plans and subsequent graduate program activities. The Department of Forestry still requires that the student completes and turns in the Report of the Guidance Committee, Record of Comprehensive Exam, and the Dissertation Final Defense form to the Graduate Secretary while simultaneously routing their plan.

After students have entered their program plan into GradPlan, the plan is reviewed and approved electronically at several levels via the Forms Tracking Utility. The approval begins at the program level, then committee members, next by the department, and lastly by the college personnel.

Final acceptance of the dissertation by the Graduate School and the final degree certification by the department, college, and Office of the Registrar are all set up for final approval and stored electronically in GradPlan.

This brief guide will walk you through how to use GradPlan (GradPlan Student Guide).

Graduation Application

Candidates for a Master or Doctoral Degree must complete the on-line graduation application form on or before the end of the first week of the semester in which they expect to complete their degree requirements. This will assure their name is included in the commencement program.

If the student expects to complete the degree requirements during Summer semester, submit this application on or before the end of the first week of Spring semester. This will assure that the students name is included in the Spring/Summer commencement program.

For students without MSU NetID and Password, or to apply for a previous semester, print and complete the hard copy graduation application form and fax or mail it to the Office of the Registrar.

V. SELECTION OF THESIS/DISSERTATION ADVISOR 

No one is admitted to our graduate programs without a willing advisor. The selection of a student’s permanent faculty advisor will be approved by the graduate committee prior to admission.

Eligible Advisors

Must be a Michigan State University regular faculty possessing an earned Ph.D. The ‘regular faculty’ of Michigan State University shall consist of all persons appointed under the rules of tenure and holding the rank of professor, associate professor, assistant professor, or instructor, and persons appointed as librarians.

Role and Responsibilities of Advisor

The Advisor has the responsibility to meet periodically to oversee the graduate student’s progress for as long as the graduate student continues in good standing. The Advisor is responsible for ensuring the adequacy of the overall program, in keeping with the general policy that six or more semesters of study and research beyond the bachelor’s degree are required.

• Review and sign the Annual Progress Report with students each January.
• Monitor and enforce RCR requirements including holding face-to-face meetings.
• Ensure that if a student is involved with human subjects, animal subjects, and/or hazardous materials they are taking the necessary training.

Departure of Advisor from University

If a student’s major advisor leaves MSU before the student completes his/her degree program, the Department Chair and the Director of Graduate Studies will work with the student to find a suitable replacement.

Changing Advisors

In the event that a student and/or the major advisor has requested a change, the Department Chair and the Director of Graduate Studies will work with the student to find a suitable replacement if the student has not already done so. A Graduate Committee Form will need to be submitted to the Graduate secretary removing the previous advisor and adding the new advisor. For Ph.D. students, after turning in the form you will need to make the change in GradPlan as well and route for approval. If the major advisor is the Department Chair, the student will work with the Director of Graduate Studies to find a suitable replacement.

VI. FORMATION OF THE GUIDANCE COMMITTEE

It shall be the responsibility of each graduate student admitted to a doctoral program or to a master’s program that requires a guidance committee to form a guidance committee with the concurrence of the unit chairperson/director or designated representative. Composition of the guidance committee will be in accord with University, college, and department/school guidelines. If a student is unable to form a guidance committee, it shall be the responsibility of the unit chairperson/director to intervene with the faculty of the unit to resolve the problem.

Master’s Program Examining Committee

The Master’s program examining committee shall be formed no later than the second semester of master’s study. A Master’s Plan A program examining committee consists of at least three MSU regular faculty; with at least one of whom is a faculty member of another Department. A Master’s Plan B program examining committee consists of at least two MSU regular faculty. The student’s Major Professor, who must be a faculty member in the Department of Forestry, chairs the committee. The examining committee is responsible for certifying to the Department Chairperson that the program of study is designed to assist the student in achieving their educational goals and meets the standards of the Department.

An exception may be granted by the Dean of the Graduate School to allow a non–tenure stream faculty member or an Academic Specialist to serve on a master's student's examination committee as one of the three required faculty members of a master's student's examination committee. With the approval of the chairperson or director of the department or school, an exception may be granted to allow an Emeritus faculty member to serve as one of the three required faculty members on a master's student's examination committee; in addition, an Emeritus faculty member may continue to serve as the chairperson of an examination committee.

Doctoral Guidance Committee

The guidance committee shall be formed no later than the second semester of doctoral study, or within two semesters beyond the master’s degree or its equivalent. Within one semester after the committee has met, the student shall route their program of study through GradPlan for approval by the dean of the college, listing all degree requirements.  This committee consists of at least four Michigan State University regular faculty at least three of whom, including the committee chairperson, possess an earned doctoral degree (preferably of the same type that the student is seeking (for example Ph.D.); and one of whom is a faculty member of another Department.  The student’s Major Professor, who must be a faculty member in the Department of Forestry, chairs the committee. This committee, in consultation with the student, will plan the course program, research and examinations.  Normally, a major field of study, and one or more related fields of study are identified in the program.

An exception may be granted by the Dean of the Graduate School to allow a non–tenure stream faculty member or an Academic Specialist to serve on a doctoral student's guidance committee as one of the four required faculty members of a doctoral student's guidance committee. With the approval of the chairperson, an exception may be granted to allow an Emeritus faculty member to serve as one of the four required faculty members on a doctoral student's guidance committee; in addition, an Emeritus faculty member may continue to serve as the chairperson of a guidance committee. More than four persons may be members of the guidance committee. Persons who are not Michigan State University regular faculty who can contribute to the student's program may serve as members of the guidance committee and assist in the work of the committee, providing that the number of such persons does not exceed the number of regular faculty on the committee. In consultation with the student, the guidance committee plans the entire program, including examinations, and thereafter supervises it, making modifications as needed until the degree is completed.

 

VII. THESIS/DISSERTATION DEFENSE AND FINAL ORAL EXAMINATIONS

Master’s Programs Thesis Defense and Final Oral Examination

Students in a Plan A master's degree program are required to pass an oral examination in defense of the thesis. However, students in certain programs are required to pass an oral examination that covers both a defense of the thesis and coursework. This examination must be scheduled within the time frame determined by the department the semester in which graduation is anticipated. The examination for a Plan A master's degree is administered by an examining committee consisting of at least three Michigan State University regular faculty members (as defined in the Faculty Handbook). At the discretion of the examining committee, the presentation and defense of the thesis may be open to members of the academic community. The thesis and the student's performance on the oral examination must be approved by a majority vote of the examining committee. 

A final examination or evaluation is required for students in a Plan B master's degree program. The examination or evaluation is administered in accordance with department or school and college rules by a committee consisting of at least two Michigan State University regular faculty members (as defined in the Faculty Handbook). The content and format of the examination or evaluation are specified by the department or school and college.

For both Plan A and Plan B, the student must be registered during the semester in which the examination or evaluation is administered. This requirement may be waived if the examination is administered during the summer session immediately following a spring semester during which the student was registered and/or prior to a fall semester in which the student will be registered.

Doctoral Program Dissertation Defense and Final Oral Examination

The final oral examination in defense of the dissertation is conducted and evaluated by the major advisor and the guidance committee. Other interested faculty members and members of the public may attend the presentation portion of the examination without vote. Only guidance committee members may attend the examination portion of the defense per individual unit guidelines. The dissertation and the student's performance on the final oral examination must be approved by a positive vote by at least three–fourths of the voting examiners and with not more than one dissenting vote from among the Michigan State University regular faculty members of the guidance committee.

The final oral examination must be scheduled for a date not earlier than two weeks after the dissertation and abstract have been submitted to the chairperson of the guidance committee, other guidance committee members, and any appointed examiner. The student must be registered during the semester in which the final oral examination is taken.

Graduate Student Food Expectations for Meetings

The Department of Forestry is committed to the academic success of all graduate students. As a community, we are vigilant in ensuring that policy and practices support this commitment. The practice of graduate students providing refreshments at their own committee meetings and exams runs counter to a student’s academic success. While students providing refreshments has been a norm, we recognize that the student’s focus appropriately should be on the academic substance of the meeting, exam, or defense. Considering existing structures and power dynamics between faculty members and graduate students that do not affect all students equally, we recognize that students may feel pressure to continue this practice if Department policy suggests it is optional. Thus, Forestry graduate students and faculty have agreed:

1. For thesis/dissertation defenses, the graduate student will not bring refreshments. The Department of Forestry will provide light refreshments, which may be supplemented by friends and family of the graduate student or committee members.
2. For comprehensive exams, the graduate student will not provide refreshments.
3. For committee meetings, the graduate student will not provide refreshments.

If an exam or committee meeting encompasses the lunch hour, we encourage the advisor to have clear communication with committee members regarding lunch expectations.

Faculty and students should remain cognizant that the graduate student providing refreshments could contribute undue stress and a financial burden. Coffee and tea are available to committee members from the Department Collaboration Room.

As a community, we encourage and support open communication around these issues to ensure that the Department of Forestry’s commitment to academic success of all graduate students is fulfilled.

VIII. DEPARTMENTAL POLICIES: ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Guidance Committee Progress Review

The guidance committee will review at least once a year the graduate student’s progress in his or her research or creative activity as well as plans for work in the coming year (GSRR 2.4.8). A report on the results of this review will be signed by the members of the guidance committee and by the graduate student. This report will be filed with the chair/director of the academic unit and will be placed in the graduate student’s file, together with any response that the graduate student may attach to the report of the guidance committee.

Annual Progress Report

Once a year, due January 31^st, the faculty advisor and the graduate student will complete the appropriate portions of the annual progress report form (Current Forestry Graduate Student Forms).  The faculty advisor and graduate student will then meet to discuss this evaluation and, both the faculty advisor and the graduate student will sign the completed annual progress report. The completed, signed form will be submitted to the Department Chair and placed into the graduate student’s file. Graduate students who wish to appeal any part of the faculty advisor’s evaluation may do so in writing to the Department Chair, and this appeal will be filed together with the annual progress report. The DOF Graduate Committee will review annual progress reports and schedule a meeting with the student to discuss any aspects of his or her studies that appear relevant for successful completion of the graduate program, including problems that may hinder progress, and any appeal of the faculty advisor’s evaluation (see above). Recommendations based on this review will be communicated in writing to the faculty advisor and the graduate student within two weeks of the meeting, and that report will be placed in the graduate student’s file.

Acceptable Academic Standing

Graduate students are expected to make satisfactory progress toward completion of their programs. To maintain acceptable academic standing, graduate students must:

1. Achieve specific milestones relevant to their program (i.e. formation of guidance committee, approved program of study, comprehensive exam, etc.) within the timeframes described above.
2. Be making acceptable progress towards their degree as evaluated by the guidance committee and major advisor in annual reports as described above.
3. Have attained a 3.0 or higher grade point average in course work, exclusive of collateral courses, by the end of their third semester of residence, with no individual course grade below a 2.0. All graduate students must maintain at least a 3.0 overall grade point average thereafter. In addition, a student may have grading postponed on no more than one-third of their attempted credits to maintain acceptable academic standing.

In the event that a student fails to meet one or more of these criteria for acceptable academic standing, they will receive a warning letter alerting them that they are on probationary status and outlining the steps that must be taken and a timeframe to regain acceptable academic standing. Students will be required to meet with their major advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies to discuss the circumstances leading to the warning letter and a strategy for corrective action. A copy of the letter will be placed in the student’s file.

Dismissal

A student placed on probationary status (see Acceptable Academic Standing above), who fails to meet the steps outlined in their warning letter within the timeframe specified, may be dismissed at the end of the semester based on a decision by the major advisor, Director of Graduate Studies and Department Chair. 

Students admitted to the department on a provisional basis must meet certain requirements that are specified in their admission offer letter. Failure to meet these requirements may result in dismissal based on a decision by the major advisor, Director of Graduate Studies and Department Chair. Students can be admitted provisionally for English Language deficiencies or subject-matter deficiencies. Those admitted with subject-matter deficiencies will be transferred to regular status when collateral courses are successfully completed. You will be notified promptly of the decision taken by the Department.

Failure to pass the comprehensive examination within two attempts will result in dismissal from the PhD program.

In the event of a dismissal decision notice will be given to the student by the Department Chair with a copy forwarded to the Dean of the College.

Students should be aware of University policies that describe their rights and responsibilities in situations of probationary status (Graduate Students Rights and Responsibilities) and can learn more about their rights and options by visiting the University Ombudsperson's website).

Student Academic Files

The Graduate Secretary maintains a departmental file for all graduate students in the department containing; official application materials, official program communication including offer letter, annual progress reports, required program forms, and funding information.

Students have the right to view the contents of this file and may do so by contacting the Graduate Secretary.

 

IX. DEPARTMENTAL POLICIES: INTEGRITY AND SAFETY IN RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITIES

Guidelines on Authorship and Institutional Data Policy

The Department of Forestry is strongly committed to scholarly integrity and maintaining a safe working environment. All students and faculty are expected to appropriately attribute other persons whose labor, data or ideas are used in their own work and to never falsely claim responsibility for the work or ideas of others. MSU’s Guidelines on Authorship can be found here: Guidelines on Authorship and MSU’s Institutional Data Policy can be found here: Institutional Data Policy).

Responsible Conduct of Research Training

All graduate students are required to complete Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training as described in the Department of Forestry’s RCR Training Plan. All students and faculty should familiarize themselves with MSU's Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities, which provides criteria for dismissal for unethical or dishonest behavior (Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities). MSU’s Procedures Concerning Allegations of Misconduct in Research and Creative Activities can be found here: Procedures Concerning Allegations of Misconduct in Research and Creative Activities.

All students working in research labs are expected to complete the Office for Environmental Health and Safety’s Chemical Hygiene, Laboratory Safety, And Hazardous Waste Training course (Office of Environmental Health and Safety) before beginning work. They must also complete the refresher course each year and receive laboratory-specific safety training from their major advisor. Further safety training may be required for particular laboratories or prior to performing particular activities. The faculty member in charge of the laboratory has responsibility to ensure that any additional safety training is explained to the student.

Student’s conducting research involving animals or human subjects must familiarize themselves with MSU policies and complete the necessary training before beginning their research. Information on human subjects can be found here: Human Research Protection Program) and animal research here: Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

Travel Safety

Safety while traveling for research, especially overseas travel is also important. MSU’s Travel Clinic provides resources that students should be aware of (MSU's Travel Clinic).

X. STUDENT CONDUCT AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Students may request a hearing to resolve a dispute with an instructor, but only after trying to settle the matter in conversations with the instructor and, if necessary, the relevant administrator. The student also may consult with the University Ombudsperson at any stage of the dispute. The general procedures for conducting a hearing for both graduate and undergraduate students are outlined in four MSU documents: Student Rights and Responsibilities (SRR), the Graduate Rights and Responsibilities (GSRR), Law Student Rights and Responsibilities (LSRR), the Medical Students Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR), or the Code of Teaching Responsibility.

Graduate Hearings

When a graduate student remains dissatisfied with the outcome of his or her discussions with the instructor and unit head, they may send a written request for a hearing to the appropriate unit head (i.e., department chairperson, program director, or associate dean). There are links below to hearing process flowcharts for each specific type of grievance. Hearings for graduate student grievances should be held at the lowest possible administrative level. Most often this means the department, school, or graduate program. 

Department/School/Program Level Hearing Procedures 

College Level Hearing Procedures

For Graduate students, the hearing request letter must include the following information:

• The student’s name and PID
• The student’s local address, phone number and e-mail address
• A detailed explanation of the alleged violation of student rights to justify a hearing, with reference to the specific article in the SRR, GSRR, LSRR, MSRR or Code of Teaching Responsibility
• The name of the individual the student believes violated his or her rights
• The date of the alleged violation
• The name of the MSU instructor, student, or staff member, if any, who will assist the student throughout the hearing process
• The names of witnesses, if any, who will speak on the student’s behalf at the hearing, if the hearing board grants the request for a hearing
• The redress sought to rectify the situation.

Deadline: The student should sign and date the letter and submit it before the middle of the semester following the initial dispute.

Graduate hearings initiated at the department, school or program level may be appealed to the college hearing board. Graduate hearings initiated at the college level may be appealed to the University Graduate Judiciary.

Based on the specific type of grievance, the hearing process for graduate students will follow one of the patterns listed below:

Academic Grievance Hearing alleging violations of the student rights (including grading disputes) established in the SRR, GSRR, LSRR, or MSRR:

• For graduate students starting at the Department/School/Program level
• For graduate students starting at the College level

Academic Grievance Hearing to contest an allegation of academic dishonesty:

• For graduate students starting at the Department/School/Program level
• For graduate students starting at the College level

Academic Disciplinary Hearing to impose sanctions in addition to, or other than, a failing grade in a course for an act of academic misconduct.

The academic unit will establish procedures for the timely change of the faculty advisor when such a change would best serve the progress of the graduate student in his or her program. 

 

XI. WORK RELATED POLICIES

MSU’s Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Policy

All faculty and staff (including graduate teaching assistants and research assistants) are required to complete an online training program within 30 days of hire and biennially thereafter. This program includes foundational information on relationship violence and sexual misconduct as well as important information about MSU’s policy and mandatory reporting protocols. Failure to complete the required online training will result in notification to Human Resources or Academic Human Resources, which may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Program Access:

Faculty and staff will receive an email, sent to their MSU email account, with instructions to complete the training program upon hire or 30 days before they are due to re-certify.

The program is accessed through the Office of Regulatory Affairs website. The training program is provided with MSU’s partner EVERFI Inc.

Program Overview:

Online training programs for students include information on the following topics:

Providing information to identify sex discrimination and sexual harassment, including relationship violence and sexual misconduct

Raising awareness of the impact of these issues on the campus community and encouraging community members to engage in efforts to end these types of violence

Advising members of the MSU community about their rights and reporting responsibilities under the Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Policy

Communicating behavioral expectations for all members of the MSU community as outlined in the policy

Connecting community members with support and resources

Training employees on their roles in administering the policy

Accommodations:

Individuals who believe they may have an overwhelming or intense emotional reaction to the content of the online training programs should contact the Prevention, Outreach & Education at (517) 355-3908 or empower@msu.edu to request accommodation. For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities at (517) 884-7273 (RCPD).

More information can be found at RVSM Online Education Programs.

Graduate Assistantships

Assistantship support is determined on an individual basis depending upon recommendations, availability of funds, fellowship and scholarship support, and grade record. Generally, when funding is limited, nationals will be given preference for funding. Assistantships are reviewed annually by the Department Chairperson and may be renewed if satisfactory progress is being made and funds are available. Students will be notified by March 31 (1) for those who will be employed for the following Summer Semester, (2) and as soon as practicable but no later than April 22 for those who will be employed for the following Fall and Spring Semesters, or for those who will be employed for the following Fall Semester, and (3) by December 1 for those who will be employed for the following Spring Semester. Assistantships are not generally available to M.S. Plan B students. Normally, graduate assistantship support is limited to the equivalent of two years, ½ time for Master’s students and five years, ½ time for Doctoral students.

Course Load Requirements

Graduate assistants must be registered each semester in which they hold assistantships. The minimum and maximum credit loads are as follows:

For a quarter–time graduate assistant, minimum enrollment is 6 credits for master’s degree students and 3 credits for doctoral students (including credits in courses numbered 899 or 999); maximum enrollment is 16 credits (excluding credits in courses numbered 899 or 999).

For a half–time assistant minimum enrollment is 6 credits for master’s degree students and 3 credits for doctoral students (including credits in courses numbered 899 or 999); maximum enrollment is 12 credits (excluding credits in courses numbered 899 or 999).

For a three–quarter–time assistant, minimum enrollment is 3 credits (including credits in courses numbered 899 or 999); maximum enrollment is 8 credits (excluding credits in courses numbered 899 or 999).

Minimum enrollment for doctoral students who have successfully completed all comprehensive exams is 1 credit.

Deviation from the minimum enrollment requirements listed above is permitted only during:

1. Summer session, when a 3–credit minimum enrollment is allowed for all types of assistants with 1-credit minimum for doctoral students successfully completing all comprehensive exams.
2. The semester in which the degree is granted, when all types of assistants must enroll for at least the number of credits required to complete the degree or meet the university minimum registration requirement.

Any deviation from the maximum enrollment requirements listed above must have the approval of the dean of the college prior to enrollment.

In meeting the credit requirements, graduate assistants should be enrolled in courses that are recognized as being of graduate level unless the student's department or school has granted written permission for course work constituting an exception to this rule. Visitor credits may count as part of a graduate assistant's credit load, if approved, in writing, by the student’s department chair or unit director and the Dean of the Graduate School.

Appointments and Responsibilities

Graduate assistant is a generic term referring to a graduate student who is supported on a graduate assistantship. Graduate assistants are in one of three categories as they relate to policy in this section: research assistants, teaching assistants represented by the Graduate Employees Union (GEU), and teaching assistants not represented by the GEU.

Graduate assistantships are available only to graduate students who are actively pursuing graduate degree programs and who are making satisfactory progress toward their degrees, including maintaining at least a 3.00 grade–point average. Colleges, departments, or schools may set higher or additional standards. Assistantships may be terminated if GPA falls below 3.0.

Graduate assistants are appointed on a quarter–time, half-time, or three–quarter time basis. There are two appointment periods during the fall and spring:  August 16—December 31 and January 1—May 15.  During each appointment period a graduate assistant's duties to the university require an average of:

1. 10 hours per week for a quarter–time stipend. 
2. 20 hours per week for a half–time stipend. 
3. 30 hours per week for a three–quarter–time stipend.

Summer appointments cover the period from approximately May 16—August 15.  The appointing unit is responsible for informing the graduate assistant of the distribution of duties that are related to the summer appointment.

To the extent that current policies and procedures contain provisions about wages, benefits, or other terms and conditions of employment, they are for teaching assistants included in the collective bargaining agreement between Michigan State University and the Graduate Employees Union.

Assistantship Levels

GRADUATE ASSISTANTS, LEVEL I. Graduate students with the bachelor's degree and less than one year's experience as graduate assistants or as full-support fellows. They conduct research, perform administrative tasks or other supervised duties such as reading and grading papers.

GRADUATE ASSISTANTS, LEVEL II. Graduate students with a relevant master's degree or equivalent and/or one year's experience as graduate assistants or as full-support fellows in the appointing department or school or in a unit considered relevant by the chairperson of the appointing department or school. They conduct research, grade papers, or perform administrative tasks with moderate supervision. Advancement from Level I to Level II is usually routine.

GRADUATE ASSISTANTS, LEVEL III. Graduate students who have successfully completed doctoral comprehensive exams, as defined by the department in which the student is enrolled and have experience as a graduate RA/TE at Michigan State University, or equivalent. The minimum number of semesters shall be four (4), five (5) or six (6). The definition of equivalent experience as an RA/TE is left to the discretion of the chairperson of the appointing unit, but it is expected that only experience in research-oriented assignments will count toward the six semesters of experience as an RA. (Consistent with current practice, 1/4 time and 3/4 time appointments count the same as 1/2 time appointments, and summer semesters count the same as fall and spring semesters.)

Stipends and Benefits

Stipend levels are subject to yearly change. 

For the latest information, please consult the Human Resources Web site at Human Resources Graduate Assistant Stipend Ranges.

Checks are distributed on a biweekly basis. Graduate assistants at any of the three levels may be appointed on a quarter–time, half–time, or three–quarter–time basis with an appropriate adjustment in the stipend. Changes in level, stipend, or percentage of time become effective only at the beginning of a semester. Additional benefits, even though the graduate student does not enroll for 10 credits or more, include the following:

1. Tuition waiver in the amount of 9 credits for fall semester, 9 credits for spring semester, and five credits for summer session.  The tuition waiver will be provided during the period of the assistantship, to a maximum of 23 credits per year. For Ph.D. students past comprehensive exams with a summer research assistantship (only) following a spring assistantship, there is a 1credit tuition benefit. Student health insurance carries over until August 14.
2. Exemption from out–of–state resident tuition. This exemption applies to a summer session that precedes or follows consecutive fall and spring appointments, regardless of whether the student was previously enrolled at Michigan State University. If the student does not have a graduate assistantship form completed before registering for summer session, they will pay out–of–state resident course fees and tuition. If an appointment form is submitted prior to the middle of the subsequent fall semester, the Office of the Registrar will refund the full amount of out–of–state tuition that the student paid for the summer session.
3. Specific college or program fees, applicable to all graduate students enrolled in a specific college or program, may apply, and are not waived.
4. Health Insurance. Graduate assistants (domestic and international) are automatically enrolled in a health insurance plan, the premium of which is paid by the university. The plan provides the following coverage:
   a. Fall appointment only: coverage from August 15 to February 14 of the following year.
   b. Fall and Spring appointments—coverage from August 15 to August 14 of the following year.
   c. Spring appointment only—coverage from January 1 to August 14.
   d. Summer appointment only—coverage from approximately May 12 to August 14.
   
   Enrolled students may also insure their eligible spouse and/or dependent children (residing with the insured). *Reference to spouse includes MSU recognized same-sex domestic partners of graduate assistants.
   
   For questions regarding coverage, enrollment, or premium payment, contact BCN directly at 1-800- 859-8452. For questions concerning waiver processing or general information, contact the Michigan State University Human Resources Office at 1-517-353-4434 or 1-800-353-4434, or by e-mail at: solutionscenter@hr.msu.edu. The Human Resources Office is located at 1407 S. Harrison Road, Suite 140A (Nisbet Building), East Lansing, MI 48823 and on the web at Human Resources Student Insurance; or visit BCN at BCN.
5. Eligibility for treatment at Olin Health Center.

Additional Benefits, Other Information

Library privileges, intramural and recreation facilities privileges, and eligibility to join the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union.

Eligibility for student discounts on football, basketball, and/or hockey season tickets for themselves and their spouses.

Eligibility for free admission to other regularly scheduled Michigan State University athletic events when presenting a valid student ID card.

Eligibility for student discounts on series tickets to professional performing arts events at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts and Institute for Arts and Culture, including one guest ticket at the student rate.

Exemption from payment of the Social Security tax on the stipend if the student is enrolled for the minimum number or required credits. Stipends are subject to income taxes with few exceptions. The taxability of stipends is subject to review by the Internal Revenue Service. Please call the Payroll Office for more information 1-517-355-5010. Please note that tax laws are subject to continuing revision and students should verify their tax liability each year.

Teaching Requirements

All graduate students supported by Departmental funds may be required to teach at least once a year and may be required to teach more than once a year when necessary. Teaching requirements will be in the form of a TA appointment and align with the GEU contract. International students will be required to take the MSU Speaking Test to determine the nature of teaching.

Final authority for the assignment of graduate student teaching assistants is the responsibility of the Chairperson who must protect the teaching mission of the Department.

Vacation for Students

Students on graduate assistantships are given two weeks’ vacation per year plus those scheduled legal holidays given to faculty and staff. When classes are not in session, graduate assistants are expected to work unless they schedule vacation days. There is no stated policy for graduate students who are not on assistantships. Graduate assistants must coordinate their vacation schedule with their Major Professor.

Graduate Assistant (not covered by the GEU Contract) Illness, Injury, and Pregnancy Leave Policy

A graduate assistant unable to fulfill the duties of his or her appointment because of illness or injury shall notify the administrator of his or her major unit as soon as circumstances permit.  Similarly, a graduate assistant unable to fulfill the duties of her appointment because of pregnancy shall notify the administrator of her major unit as soon as circumstances permit.

During the illness, injury, or pregnancy the major unit shall adjust (reduce, waive, or reschedule) the graduate assistant's duties as those duties and the assistant's physical circumstances reasonably dictate.  If total absence from duties becomes necessary, the major unit shall maintain the stipend of the appointment, provided the graduate assistant is still enrolled, for a period of two months, or to the end of the appointment period or of the semester, whichever should occur first.

The graduate assistant shall have the right to return to the assistantship, within the original terms of the appointment, at such time as he or she is able to reassume the duties of the position.

AAGA – Academic Achievement Graduate Assistantships

In its recently launched Strategic Plan, Illuminating the Path Forward, 2019-2024, (see https://grad.msu.edu/strategicplan), the Graduate School at Michigan State University identified “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity” as being among its core and overarching values.  Aligning with the Strategic Plan’s “Goal 2:  Diverse and Inclusive Communities,” the AAGA program seeks to “expand our campus and external partnerships to implement recruitment and retention practices” that serve diverse populations and help foster inclusive communities.  The Graduate School offers Academic Achievement Graduate Assistantships to help graduate programs recruit and then retain graduate students who have been accepted into a master’s or a doctoral degree program and whose enrollment will contribute to our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while enhancing their program’s academic excellence and diversity. Because this is a recruitment assistantship, departments can decide to offer the AAGA recipient a teaching or research assistantship with a reduced time commitment during his/her first Graduate School-funded year in the program.  The Graduate School recognizes the different opportunities and responsibilities of assistantships across graduate programs.  Units are encouraged to offer AAGAs to admitted applicants whom they expect to receive offers of financial assistance from other universities or who have externally funded fellowships.

Please note:  In accordance with state law, the selection process “shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin”.

To be eligible for the AAGA, the nominee must:

1. hold a bachelor’s degree at the time that the assistantship is awarded and demonstrate a record of excellent academic achievement
2. be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States
3. have an offer of admission into a graduate program and have the academic credentials normally required for a graduate assistantship in the discipline

Fellowships

A variety of graduate fellowships are available to Michigan State University students. Stipends and sources of support vary widely. In addition to applying for fellowships offered by the university and through the university by outside agencies, students are encouraged to apply for any outside sources of funds for which they may be eligible. Students are encouraged to consult such publications.

You can find a summary by visiting: Graduate Scholarships, Fellowships, Loans.

For more information on MSU Fellowships visit The Graduate School MSU Fellowships.

Regulations for Qualifying for In-State Tuition

Students requesting in-state fee classification for tuition purposes should first read the Regulations for Qualifying for In-State Tuition. A student who believes they should be classified as in-state under the regulations, is required to complete an Application for Classification to In-State Fee Status. Applications and additional documentation should be submitted to the Office of the Registrar, Hannah Administration Building, 426 Auditorium Road, Room 150, East Lansing, MI 48824, at least one month in advance of the semester in which reclassification is sought.

Answers to frequently asked questions about the fee classification process are available in the In-State Tuition Status section of the Office of the Registrar FAQ page. For questions or assistance with the application, please contact the Office of the Registrar at 517-432-3488, or Feeclass@msu.edu.

Financial Aid

Financial aid for graduate students is available in several forms. Several scholarships and fellowships are awarded each year by the Graduate School to the colleges, and there are many opportunities for graduate assistant appointments for part–time teaching or research. The applicant should refer to the graduate application instruction sheet that accompanies the application for admission for details on applying for financial assistance. Applications for loans for new students are made through the Office of Financial Aid and should be returned to that office before April 1, except for such loans as may carry a later deadline date. The Office of Financial Aid should be consulted for further details at The Office of Financial Aid, 517-353-5940 or via email at finaid@msu.edu.

Students already admitted to regular graduate status at Michigan State University and seeking an assistantship or other financial aid should consult the department, school, or college concerned. Since graduate assistantships and fellowships are usually awarded beginning in February for the following aid year, it is essential that applications and supporting documents be submitted in December or early in January to assure adequate consideration.

Grief Absence Policy

For master’s (Plan A), master’s (Plan B) with research responsibilities, and doctoral students, it is the responsibility of the student to: a) notify their advisor/major professor and faculty of the courses in which they are enrolled of the need for a grief absence in a timely manner, but no later than one week from the student’s initial knowledge of the situation, b) provide appropriate verification of the grief absence as specified by the advisor/major professor and faculty, and c) complete all missed work as determined in consultation with the advisor/major professor and faculty. It is the responsibility of the advisor/major professor to: a) determine with the student the expected period of absence – it is expected that some bereavement processes may be more extensive than others depending on individual circumstances, b) receive verification of the authenticity of a grief absence request upon the student’s return, and c) make reasonable accommodations so that the student is not penalized due to a verified grief absence. If employed as a RA or TE, the graduate student must also notify their employer. Both employer and student will swiftly communicate to determine how the student’s responsibilities will be covered during their absence. Graduate teaching assistants (TAs) should refer to the bereavement policy in GEU CBU Article 18.

Work in Absentia

Candidates for the doctoral degree may, with the approval of the guidance committee, carry on some of the work in absentia. Arrangements for registration may be made by applying at the office of the dean of the appropriate college.

Workspace and Use of Facilities

The Major Professor will arrange space for the project and use of research laboratory facilities, when necessary.

If a student’s proposed research project will require pesticide applications, the student must become a certified or registered pesticide applicator with the State of Michigan. Students not certified or registered will not be allowed to apply pesticides. Certified or registered pesticide applicators in the Forestry Department are not obliged to apply pesticides for uncertified students. Contact the Extension Bulletin Office in Agriculture Hall for a copy of the Pesticide Applicators Training Manual.

The State of Michigan has a Right-to-Know law for all individuals in the workplace. All students are required to complete a basic safety course on handling hazardous substances found in the workplace. Graduate students conducting procedures in faculty labs must undergo additional training and complete related safety forms for each workplace.

Supplies for Research Projects

Students must have an appropriate account number prior to ordering supplies for research projects. Supplies from off-campus require a requisition from the Major Professor.

Certain items can be obtained directly from MSU Stores and Biochemistry Stores while others must be requisitioned. Stores items are listed in the MSU Stores Catalog. In some cases, MSU Stores has an open account with off-campus sources for items not carried in stock. It is necessary to check with MSU Stores before obtaining items from such sources.  Supplies from MSU Stores and Biochem Stores must have the approval of the Major Professor who will indicate the account, which is to be charged. Supplies from off-campus, which require a requisition, must be obtained by filling out a requisition request, which the Major Professor can furnish, and which must be signed before it can be processed.

Reimbursement by Disbursement Voucher

For small items (under $50) a direct purchase may be most feasible. A disbursement voucher will be issued to reimburse the purchase upon request of the Major Professor. Again, this will only be reimbursed if approved by the Major Professor. Reimbursement can be obtained by filling out a Non-Travel Reimbursement Request Form located in the main Forestry office and attaching itemized receipts of your purchase.

Scientific Instruments and Microcomputers

A large amount of scientific equipment is available in the Department.  Such equipment is assigned to specific staff members for supervision and maintenance. The graduate student with the approval of their Major Professor should initiate approval for its use. Students using scientific equipment should be sure they know how to operate instruments before attempting to use them.

Statistical Consultation Service

The Statistical Consultation Service is a free service provided by MSU through the Center for Statistical Training and Consulting. MSU graduate students can receive up to 9 hours per year (July 1 to June 30) free statistical support for their dissertation research. Additional hours may be available depending on sponsorships by colleges or departments. This time can encompass meetings to discuss the project; recommending methods, resources, or software; contact and communication time (in person, phone, or online), as well as time outside of meetings needed for data analysis, report writing, or other tasks deemed necessary. This will typically be done by CSTAT Research Assistants and depends on availability. The CANR Statistical Consulting Services are free for CANR students: https://scc.anr.msu.edu/. The CANR Statistical Consulting Center (SCC) offers statistical advice free of charge to faculty, grad. students and technicians employed within the college or with AgBioResearch.

Equipment Use 

Requests for the use of University vehicles and equipment require permission of the student’s Major Professor. In some cases, appropriate forms, and/or a sign out sheet must be filled out prior to obtaining permission. University facilities are never to be applied to personal use.

Use of University Vehicles

University vehicles are only available to graduate students for authorized use and permission for use is contingent upon the approval of a properly completed travel request. Travel over 500 miles one way in University vehicles must be approved in advance by the Office of Planning and Budgets. The student must note that University’s Travel Accident Insurance Policy does not apply to graduate students. Also, University general funds may not be used to travel to collect data primarily for theses and/or dissertations.

Travel Requests

Prior to all travel, a travel authorization form must be completed by the graduate student and signed by the Department Chairperson and the Major Professor. Except for local travel, each travel must have a separate travel authorization form processed.

Copy Machine

Copy machine use is restricted. The copy machine is for Department business only. Each Major Professor has a copy code for their lab that can be provided to students.

Telephones

Telephones are provided in graduate student rooms and laboratories. No personal long-distance calls may be made from these phones. Local personal calls should be kept to a minimum. A pay telephone is available on the first floor.

Departmental Keys

See Renee Tilley in 126 Natural Resources. Doors in the building are locked after hours and on weekends. Access to the collaboration room, offices, and the research laboratories will require keys. Access to the building and certain labs requires key card access and is obtained by providing Renee Tilley with a photo of the front and back of your MSU ID Card. There is a $10.00 key deposit required by the Department for office and common area keys.

D2L – Desire2Learn

D2L is an MSU-supported online learning management system. D2L help and documentation is available at Desire2Learn Help.

 

XII. UNIVERSITY POLICY ABOUT DISSEMINATION OF GRADUATE STUDENTS’ RESEARCH

In keeping with MSU’s public mission, the University requires that theses, dissertations, and abstracts will become public after the conferral of the degree; embargoes can only be pursued for a limited period (see [1] below). Results that are subject to restrictions for dissemination by funding agencies (see [2] below) cannot be part of any document submitted as a thesis or dissertation to the Graduate School.

[1] Hold/embargo on publication of documents submitted to ProQuest:

Students submitting a thesis/dissertation to ProQuest now can request a hold/embargo of publication by ProQuest by contacting the Graduate School at msuetds.approval@grd.msu.edu. In response to the request, the Graduate School will send directly to the student a form that needs to be completed and turned to the Graduate School prior to submission of the document to ProQuest. The form needs to be signed by the student’s major professor and by the Associate Dean of the student’s college. The request for the hold/embargo may be for six months, one year or two years. Requests for a period longer than six months must include a written justification for the length of the hold/embargo.

[2] Graduate students' participating in University Research Organization (URO; https://uro.egr.msu.edu/):

Graduate students involved in a URO project will receive both written documentation and a verbal explanation of any limitations or implications to their current or future academic progress prior to participating on the project.  Students engaging in work for a URO project undergo a 2-step approval process before hiring:  a consultation with a representative of the URO’s office to explain the restrictions on the project, and an interview with the Graduate School Dean or Dean’s designee to discuss the relationship, if any, between their work as graduate students and their participation in the project.  Students must be informed that results that are subject to restrictions for dissemination cannot be part of any document submitted as a thesis or dissertation. As part of their degree program, all graduate students must have research options to ensure the generation of appropriate results to fulfill the degree requirements, and to have data for professional development activities that are integral to their graduate education (e.g., presentations at conferences and research seminars).

 

XIII. UNIVERSITY RESOURCES

Code of Teaching Responsibilities

COGS – Council of Graduate Students

GEU – Graduate Employees Union 

General Student Regulations

Integrity of Scholarship and Grades

Complete list of Student Organizations 

Spartan Life: Student Handbook and Resource Guide 

GSRR – Graduate Student Rights and Responsibilities (located within Part II of the Spartan Life: Student Handbook and Resource Guide) 

Department of Forestry 

Academic Programs Catalog 

Course Descriptions 

Academic Calendar 

Schedule of Courses 

Final Examination Policy

The final exam time and location for courses offering a final exam will be listed in the Schedule of Courses and on the class list in the RO Instructor Systems. For additional information please call (517) 355-4522. https://reg.msu.edu/ROInfo/Calendar/FinalExam.aspx

FERPA – Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 

Graduate Student Health Insurance 

Center for Academic and Future Faculty Excellence (CAFFE) 

Planning, Resilience, Engagement, Professionalism (PREP) 

Career Success 

PhD Career Services 

Graduate Student Life & Wellness 

Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution 

Counseling Center

Office of the Ombudsman 

Guidelines for Graduate Student Advising and Mentoring Relationships

Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) 

Research Integrity

Guidelines for Integrity in Research and Creative Activities 

MSU Office of Regulatory Affairs Responsible Conduct of Research 

MSU Scholarship Search 

Scholarships and Grants 

The Writing Center 

The Graduate School